Impact of Respirator use on CO2 Levels and O2 Saturation – FY09

Objective

During a pandemic influenza, healthcare workers (HCW) will be utilizing respirators for protracted periods of time (8–12 hr shifts) that could lead to CO2 retention, decreases in O2 saturation, and performance decrements. This study will evaluate transcutaneous CO2 levels and O2 saturation associated with respirator use at workrates typical for HCW.